Fishing Guide Near Longview, WA

Longview & Kelso Fishing Guide

Longview and its twin city Kelso sit at the confluence of the Cowlitz and Columbia Rivers — two of the most productive fisheries in the Pacific Northwest converging in one location. This makes the Longview-Kelso area one of the most strategically located fishing hubs in Southwest Washington, with access to multiple river systems and species year-round.

Andy launches from the Longview area when targeting Columbia River salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon, and frequently fishes the lower Cowlitz through Kelso where returning fish stage before heading upstream. Having both rivers within minutes of each other gives Andy the option to shift between systems based on what’s biting.

What You Can Catch Near Longview

Fall Chinook (August – October) — The Columbia’s legendary fall chinook run passes right through Longview’s tidal waters. Andy trolls flashers and herring to intercept these big kings as they stage near the Cowlitz confluence.

Coho Salmon (September – November) — Strong coho runs hit both the Columbia and lower Cowlitz simultaneously, giving Andy flexibility to chase the hottest bite.

Sturgeon (Spring – Summer) — The Columbia’s tidal waters near Longview are prime sturgeon habitat. Andy anchors over productive structure to target these ancient fish in catch-and-release battles.

Winter Steelhead (December – March) — The lower Cowlitz through Kelso produces good numbers of winter steelhead that stack up in the deeper runs before continuing upstream.

Two Rivers, One Location

Longview is located at Exit 36 on I-5, about 45 minutes north of Portland. The city’s position at the river confluence means Andy can fish the Columbia’s tidal waters for salmon and sturgeon or work the lower Cowlitz for steelhead — all within a short boat ride of the same launch. For clients traveling from Portland, Longview is one of the quickest routes to world-class river fishing.